The most interesting thing about those numbers to me is the fact the despite the startling success, none of the major networks have tried to blatantly rip this show off yet. That is incredible, given how stupid and uncreative network programming is. It's like they're all just conceding that they can't do anything remotely that good so why even try?

The CW tried out a zombie drama pilot last fall, but ultimately passed on it. Like Bill said, the networks would be too limited in the gore/violence they could show to really copy the show too closely.

I coudl see someone like Showtime/Starz taking a whack at it though if the popularity holds out...

I've been reading some interesting stuff about that. The FCC only can censor for nudity/sex/profanity - not gore. So in theory the networks could air the Walking Dead if they wanted. They just don't have the balls, yet. But given the ratings and accolades for shows like WD and Game of Thrones, they probably will step up eventually. I do recall quite a few gory moments from Heroes.

I really can't see the gore as an issue given some of what I've seen on things like CSI and copycat crime shows. Heck, some of the murder mystery stuff from 20-20 is pretty awful and that's based in realty. Shows like Supernatural and Grimm have had some shocking material as well. I think WD stands out because of the character development - that's what other shows seem to struggle to replicate. I'm looking at you Revolution.

Well, I bit the bullet and watched the first episode of The Walking Dead on Netflix yesterday. I've resisted thus far as I'm not really a "zombie guy". I also don't usually enjoy watching movies about people suffering (I'm much more of a campy feel good kind of guy) which I think this show will be about.

However, too many people keep raving about this show. I liked the first episode but I'm not sure if I'm hooked. I will watch through Season 1 before I make up my mind